What IS Freemasonry?
|
Introduction |
| |
Freemasonry
is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies. This
leaflet is intended to explain Freemasonry as it is practiced in
the United States of America. The explanation may correct some
misconceptions. Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with
moral and spiritual values. Its members are taught its precepts
by a series of ritual dramas, which follow ancient forms and use
stonemasons' customs and tools as allegorical guides |
|
|
|
The
Essential Qualification for Membership |
|
|
The
essential qualification for admission into and continuing
membership is a belief in a Supreme Being. Membership is open to
men of any race or religion who can fulfill this essential
qualification and are of good repute |
|
|
|
Freemasonry
and Religion |
|
|
Freemasonry
is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. Its
essential qualification opens it to men of many religions and it
expects them to continue to follow their own faith. It does not
allow religion to be discussed at its meetings. |
|
|
|
Charity |
|
|
From
its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care
of orphans, the sick and the aged. This work continues today. In
addition, large sums are given to national and local charities |
|
|
|
Freemasonry
and Society |
|
|
Freemasonry
demands from its members a respect for the law of the country in
which a man works and lives. Its principles do not in any way
conflict with its members' duties as citizens, but should
strengthen them in fulfilling their private and public
responsibilities. The use by a Freemason of their membership to
promote his own or anyone else's business, professional or
personal interests is condemned, and is contrary to the conditions
on which he sought admission to Freemasonry. His duty as a citizen
must always prevail over any obligation to other Freemasons, and
any attempt to shield a Freemason who has acted dishonorably or
unlawfully is contrary to this prime duty. |
|
|
|
Secrecy |
|
|
The
secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with its traditional modes
of recognition. It is not a secret society, since all members
are free to acknowledge their membership and will do so in
response to inquiries for respectable reasons. Its constitutions
and rules are available to the public. There is no secret about
any of its aims and principles. Like many other societies, it
regards some of its internal affairs as private matters for its
members. |
|
|
|
Freemasonry
and Politics |
|
|
Freemasonry
is non-political, and the discussion of politics at Masonic
meetings is forbidden. |
|
|
|
Conclusion |
|
|
A
Freemason is encouraged to do his duty first to God (by whatever
name he is known) through his faith and religious practice; and
then, without detriment to his family and those dependent on
him, to his neighbor through charity and service. None of these
ideas are exclusively Masonic, but all should be universally
acceptable. Freemasons are expected to follow them. |
To Find Out More on How to become a Member:
Click
Here.
Members
Enter Here
Copyright
1999-2008
02/18/2008 19:28
|
